Implementation of cadmium limits on cocoa products
On 13 May 2014, Regulation (EU) No 488/2014 amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels of cadmium in foodstuffs was published in the OJEU.
This Regulation introduced maximum levels for cocoa-based products and chocolate, the implementation of which is very close since these limits will take effect on 1 January 2019.
Indeed, in some cocoa-producing countries, the content of cadmium naturally present in the soil may be high.
Cocoa and chocolate sold to the consumer are therefore likely to contain high levels of Cadmium.
These products contribute significantly to the population’s exposure to cadmium and are frequently consumed by children directly as chocolate as such or as sweet cocoa powder.
The following limits will apply from 01/01/19:
| Limit in mg/kg | |
| Milk chocolate with < 30% total dry cocoa solids | 0,1 |
| Chocolate with < 50% total dry cocoa solids; milk chocolate with ≥ 30% total dry cocoa solids | 0,3 |
| Chocolate with ≥ 50% total dry cocoa solids | 0,8 |
| Cocoa powder sold to the final consumer or as an ingredient in sweet cocoa powder sold to the final consumer (chocolate drink) | 0,6 |
You can consult the complete by-law at the attached link: By-law N°488/2014.
For any technical, pricing or regulatory information, do not hesitate to contact us.
